This air fryer jam crumble cake delivers the perfect balance between buttery crispness and soft sweetness. Each crumb melts into the next, infused with the aroma of lemon zest and the comforting flavor of butter. The air fryer ensures even browning and a delicate crunch, making this simple dessert ideal for breakfast or as a cozy afternoon treat.
Inspired by traditional Italian crumb cakes, this version is effortless yet irresistible. The dough comes together in minutes — just mix the ingredients until crumbly, press half into the pan, spread your favorite jam or fruit preserve, and top with the remaining crumbs. The result is a golden, fragrant cake with a tender heart that’s impossible to resist.
Whether served with tea, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this crumble cake proves that even the simplest bakes can feel special.
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Crispy Jam Crumble Cake (Air Fryer Version)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add cold butter, egg, and lemon zest. Mix with a spoon, then rub by hand until crumbly without overworking.
- Grease and flour a 20 cm (8-inch) pan suitable for the air fryer. Press half of the crumbs on the bottom and sides to form a base, then spread jam evenly on top.
- Top with remaining crumbs and place the pan in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 25 minutes. Let cool slightly, flip the cake onto a plate, return to pan, and air fry for another 5–8 minutes until golden underneath.
- Transfer to a serving plate, cool slightly, and serve.
- Store in an airtight container or under a cake dome at room temperature for 2–3 days. Refrigerate if using very fresh jam and bring to room temperature before serving.
Extra Tips
- Add fresh fruit: Layer thin slices of apple or pear over the jam before adding the top crumbs.
- Swap the filling: Replace jam with chocolate hazelnut spread or tropical preserves like mango or pineapple.
- Top with almonds: Sprinkle sliced almonds before baking for an extra-crunchy finish.
- Add spice: Mix a pinch of cinnamon or ground ginger into the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Use whole wheat flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a rustic texture and extra fiber.
Since 2012, I’ve been sharing life through the things I love most — cooking, traveling, observing, and writing. I do it with the curiosity of someone who’s always learning, and the joy of sharing something real and heartfelt
